UM Invites the Community to Show Griz Pride

MISSOULA – It’s that time of year again: The University of Montana invites Missoula’s residents and businesses to “Paint Missoula Maroon” to welcome UM students to campus for a new academic year.

A longtime tradition, “Paint Missoula Maroon” also celebrates and fosters the deep connection between the campus and community.

Beginning today, University staff and students will distribute Griz Kits to area businesses and neighborhoods to help “Paint Missoula Maroon.” The kits include UM stickers, yard signs, flags and window decals for display on cars, in windows and on sidewalks.

Community members displaying Griz gear are encouraged to share photos on social media with the hashtag #PaintMissoulaMaroon.  

On Monday, Aug. 21, UM students will move into residence halls. Monday, Aug. 28, is the first day of classes. Additionally, the first home Grizzly football game will be held Sept. 2, and UM will host Homecoming Sept. 25-30.

“The start of a new academic year is always a perfect time to celebrate the close relationship between UM and Missoula,” said UM President Seth Bodnar. “As we prepare to welcome more than 10,000 students back to school next week, the community’s effort to Paint Missoula Maroon shows that our Grizzly pride runs deep.”

Members of the public interested in a Griz Kit are invited to drop by the Grizzly Scholarship Association Office located on the first floor of the Adams Center.

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Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM director of strategic communications, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.